Linseed, also known as flaxseed, is primarily cultivated in countries such as Canada, Russia, Kazakhstan, China, and India, which together account for the majority of global production. Historically, linseed farming dates back to ancient civilizations, with archaeological evidence showing its domestication in the Fertile Crescent around 9,000 years ago. The ancient Egyptians valued flax for its fibers, using it to make linen, while its seeds were prized for their oil and nutritional value. Over centuries, linseed spread through Europe and Asia, becoming a staple crop for both fiber and oil production. In modern times, Canada has emerged as the world's leading producer, focusing mainly on linseed oil, while countries like India and China utilize it for both oil and traditional medicines. The global importance of linseed continues today, driven by its applications in food, textiles, and industry.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Russia | 1,300,173 |
2 | Kazakhstan | 775,568 |
3 | Canada | 345,708 |
4 | China | 340,000 |
5 | India | 111,000 |
6 | Ethiopia | 82,000 |
7 | France | 72,940 |
8 | United Kingdom | 71,000 |
9 | United States of America | 68,790 |
10 | Ukraine | 42,230 |
11 | Afghanistan | 32,220 |
12 | Nepal | 12,842 |
13 | Argentina | 12,358 |
14 | Egypt | 9,000 |
15 | Belarus | 7,000 |
16 | Australia | 6,000 |
17 | Sweden | 5,500 |
18 | Uruguay | 5,358 |
19 | Brazil | 5,354 |
20 | Poland | 4,900 |
21 | Bangladesh | 3,735 |
22 | Romania | 3,360 |
23 | Tunisia | 3,163 |
24 | Czechia | 2,530 |
25 | New Zealand | 2,306 |
26 | Austria | 1,900 |
27 | Pakistan | 1,670 |
28 | Hungary | 1,500 |
29 | Chile | 1,355 |
30 | Slovakia | 1,030 |
31 | Uzbekistan | 1,000 |
Data from United Nations FAO Stat